Overview
Henoch-Schonlein purpura is a kind of vasculitis, which means it is the result of inflammation of the blood vessels. This causes the blood vessels to become leaky, leading to the formation of a characteristic rash. This condition usually resolves on its own, though it can cause some serious complications.
Causes
Henoch-Schonlein purpura is thought to be a result of the immune system’s response to some infections, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders (NIDDK) explains. The theory is that after the immune system successfully fights off an infection it can continue to attack healthy cells in the blood vessels, leading to inflammation. Henoch-Schonlein purpura often occurs after patients have had a respiratory infection, but it can also be triggered by insect bites, cold weather and some vaccines.
Symptoms
There are three main symptoms that people with Henoch-Schonlein purpura may experience, according to the Mayo Clinic. The most distinctive sign of Henoch-Schonlein purpura is the formation of characteristic reddish-purple spots that look similar to bruises. Over 50 percent of children also experience abdominal pain which can be accompanied by nausea, blood in the stools and vomiting. Finally, some people with his disease experience bouts of arthritis, especially in the knees and ankles.
Complications
Some cases of Henoch-Schonlein purpura can lead to kidney damage. Severe kidney damage can require the patient to go on dialysis or receive a kidney transplant. Another potential complication of Henoch-Schonlein purpura, the NIDDK explains, is a condition called intussusception of the bowel. With this complication a portion of the intestines become twisted, which can lead to obstruction of the bowel.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Henoch-Schonlein purpura can often be done by a physician simply based on the characteristic rash that it causes, the NIDDK explains. A skin biopsy of an affected part of the body can also demonstrate the high numbers of white blood cells and immune proteins (called IgA) which this disorder can cause. If kidney involvement is suspected, urine and blood tests as well as a kidney biopsy can be used to measure the health of the kidneys.
Treatment
Because Henoch-Schonlein purpura usually goes away on its own after four to six weeks, the Mayo Clinic explains that the typical treatment for the disease hinges on relieving symptoms. Rest and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen) can ease the arthritis pain. Patients with severe dehydration, abdominal or joint pain, or kidney problems may require hospitalization.
About this Author
Adam Cloe is an MD/PhD student at the University of Chicago. He has a Bachelor of Arts in biochemistry from Boston University, where he won an award for excellence in undergraduate science writing. He has been published in various scientific journals.
